Law Firm Layoffs Alternative: 4-Day Week for Over 100 Attorneys and Staff

A major Yorkshire law firm in the United Kingdom instituted a four-day workweek yesterday for more than 100 of its attorneys and staff members as an alternative to making layoffs to deal with the economic downturn.

Those involved in the Harrowells workweek reduction were very understanding about the “planned and prudent step” at the solicitors’ firm, which will last at least until June, partner John Yeomans tells the Press. Although the firm will stay open throughout the standard workweek, those working reduced schedules will come in for only four days, and days off will be staggered to keep staffing at a uniform level.

In addition to averting layoffs, the move “will ensure that we remain strong and well-placed to respond as soon as economic conditions permit,” Yeomans states.